WHAT YOU’LL DO TO BUILD A BAT HOUSE

Step 2: Use your pocketknife to scribe shallow grooves (less than 1⁄16″ deep) across the inside of the back sheet of plywood, about 1⁄4″ to 1⁄2″ apart. The grooves help bats grip the plywood.

Step 3: Run a bead of caulk onto the contact surfaces of the interior frame and spacer blocks, and then screw them in place. All surfaces that are in contact with each other should be caulked before screwing them together. Caulking acts as a gasket, sealing out water.

Step 4: Drill 1⁄2″ vent holes. In cold climates, you need only three or four vent holes.

Step 5: Stain the interior of the bat house, including the plywood, frame and spacer blocks. Allow the stain to dry.

Step 6: Caulk and screw the back panel to the frame and spacer blocks. Be sure to drill pilot holes to avoid splitting.

Step 7: Caulk and screw on the roof. A drop of caulking in each screw pilot hole will help waterproof the bat house and keep the inside dry.

Step 8: Paint the exterior with primer, then apply two coats of paint. Use black paint for colder climates and gray paint for warmer climates. Attach the bat house to a building or other structure. Face it south or east, about 10′ to 12′ off the ground.

PHOTOS OF COMPLETED BAT HOUSES

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